Journey to the Heart in Mexico

Join neuro-movement coach Lila Heller and guest Pilates and Yamuna trainer Katie Ybarra for an eight-night, seven-day journey of movement, breath, and renewal. Through Pilates, Yamuna Body Rolling, nervous system regulation, meditation, and journaling, we will explore the body from the inside out — building sustainable strength, releasing tension, and reconnecting with our inner guidance.

Set at the beautiful Mar de Jade retreat center on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, just north of Puerto Vallarta, this peaceful oasis offers the perfect setting to slow down, restore, and reconnect. Enjoy organic farm-to-table meals, ocean walks, hammocks, massage, and time in nature as you immerse yourself in a week of reflection, movement, and community.

Together we will create space to listen more deeply, move with greater awareness, and return home feeling grounded, renewed, and connected to what matters most.

Space is limited to maintain an intimate retreat experience.

If you feel called to reconnect with yourself through movement, reflection, and nature, we would love to welcome you on this Journey to the Heart.

• Daily Love of Movement Method classes (Pilates, neuro-movement, journaling)
• Yamuna Body Rolling and Pilates sessions
• Breathwork and nervous system regulation practices
• Time for rest, beach walks, spa treatments, and excursions
• Organic farm-to-table meals
• A supportive community and space for reflection and renewal

Our days at Mar de Jade follow a gentle rhythm designed to balance movement, reflection, and spacious time to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific coast.

Mornings begin with the Love of Movement Method — a 2-hour immersive class blending Pilates, neuro-movement, journaling, and nervous system work to help you reconnect with your body and inner voice.

After class, we gather for a nourishing breakfast overlooking the ocean.

Late mornings and early afternoons offer free time to relax and explore — enjoy the beach, hammocks, spa treatments, hikes, whale watching, or simply rest.

We come back together for lunch, followed by more spacious time to enjoy the retreat center and the surrounding nature.

In the afternoons, we gather for practices such as Yamuna Body Rolling, Pilates, breathwork, and outdoor movement sessions, helping release tension and build strength with awareness.

Evenings are simple and beautiful — dinner together, ocean breezes, and time to unwind.

On our final day we gather for a closing ceremony, reflecting on the journey we’ve shared and the insights we will carry home.

Lila Heller

Hi, I’m Lila—movement alchemist, nervous system guide, and founder of The Love of Movement.

I grew up in a small town in Southern Oregon, where summers were spent barefoot by the river and meals came from our garden. My parents raised me close to the earth—rooted in spirituality, simplicity, and a deep respect for the natural rhythms of life.

That early connection to body and nature became the foundation for my life’s work. Over the past 20+ years, I’ve guided thousands of people back home to themselves—through movement practices that weave together Pilates, breathwork, applied neurology, and functional flow to support the whole nervous system.

Recently, I moved through a healing crisis that deepened everything I thought I knew. It reminded me—viscerally—that true well-being means caring for the body, the mind, and the spirit. Slowing down. Listening in. Letting softness lead.

Whether I’m teaching a class, leading a retreat, or creating something for my online library, my intention is always the same: to help you feel stronger, softer, and more connected to the wisdom already living inside you.

I’m based in the Bay Area, a proud mama and dog lover, and forever a student of movement, healing, and this wild, beautiful life. 

Katie Ybarra

Katie is classically trained, receiving her Pilates certification in the Ron Fletcher Technique back in 1999. She has been teaching Pilates for 20+ years. Most of those years have been spent working alongside her friend and colleague, Lila Heller. She is a certified Yamuna practitioner and is looking forward to bringing the Yamuna body rolling work to the retreat.

As a former dancer, She is a lover of movement.  She believes that movement is medicine; physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 

Cancellation & Payment Policy

We understand that plans can change. Because retreats require significant advance planning and commitments to the retreat center, the following policies apply.

Deposits

All deposits are non-refundable and secure your place in the retreat.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your reservation, the following terms apply:

• 90 days or more prior to arrival: Guests will receive a refund minus 20% of the total retreat cost.

• 89–45 days prior to arrival: A 40% cancellation fee of the total retreat cost will apply.

• 44 days or less prior to arrival: No refunds will be issued.

All cancellations must be made in writing.

Shared Rooms

Room rates are based on occupancy. If a guest cancels their spot in a shared room, any applicable credit will first be applied to cover the difference in rate for the remaining occupant before any refund or credit is issued.

Late Arrivals / Early Departures

Guests are responsible for the full cost of all reserved nights. No refunds or prorated rates will be given for late arrivals or early departures, including circumstances such as delayed flights, illness, injury, or other unforeseen events.

Final Payment

Final payment is due September 13, 2026. Payment plans are available upon request.

Retreat-Specific Policies

Policies may vary slightly by retreat. Please review both the retreat contract and the specific retreat description for full details before booking.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in the retreat in case of unexpected cancellations, travel disruptions, or personal emergencies.

Shuttle Service

Shuttles from Puerto Vallarta Airport to Mar de Jade (approximately 75 minutes) are available for those who wish to use this service.

The cost ranges from $60–$180 depending on the number of passengers and is paid directly to the driver (pesos or U.S. dollars accepted).

To arrange a shuttle, please send your flight details in advance to:
info@mardejade.com

Please plan to arrive between 2:30–6:30 pm.

Dinner will be served upon arrival, followed by a brief welcome gathering. Then it’s off to rest so we can wake up refreshed and ready for our first class together.

Our first full day together begins with movement, orientation, and time to explore the grounds while beginning to connect as a group.

Daily classes, excursions, massages, and beach time — as the body unwinds and the nervous system begins to regulate and settle.

Take with you what was meant for you, and leave the rest behind. We hope to welcome you again soon.